The Uganda Cranes took a step closer to reaching a record sixth consecutive Africa Nations Championships (CHAN) finals with a 1-0 away victory over Tanzania’s Taifa Stars on Sunday.
In a performance that was a reflection of how Uganda’s build-up matches had been, Travis Mutyaba provided the spark for the Cranes with an incredible solo goal late on.
Mutyaba, who was only introduced midway through the second half waltzed his way through the Tanzanian defence before firing to the left of Ashi Manula with four minutes on the clock at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on Sunday.
It was the first international goal for the SC Villa attacking midfielder who is considered a future Uganda Cranes stalwart.
Cranes coach Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic saw his experimental side that did not include an out-and-out striker struggle for creativity despite a bright start that saw Milton Karisa come close early on.
Rogers Mato who was utilized as the pinnacle of Uganda’s attack had an effort straight at goalkeeper Ashi Manula moments later as the game slogged afterwards.
Tanzania also looked workmanlike despite being the home side and did not trouble Alionzi Nafian, but had the ball in the back of the net almost immediately after Uganda’s goal.
But Feisal Salum’s goal was ruled out for offside by the assistant referee.
Micho’s Cranes will now hope to secure their sixth consecutive CHAN qualification when the two sides meet again on September 3 at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.
Full-time
Tanzania 🇹🇿 0-1 🇺🇬Uganda
Travis Mutyaba who replaced Milton Karisa brilliantly gave Uganda a win in the 89th minute. #TANUGA #CHANQualifiers #NBSportUpdates
Courtesy 📷 pic.twitter.com/vOIkEH0OZf
— NBS Sport (@NBSportUg) August 28, 2022
